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Showing posts with label hydrogen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hydrogen. Show all posts

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is electrifying the 2018 IAA with five new zero-emission models

September 19, 2018 0


  • I.D. BUZZ CARGO based on the I.D. Family provides look ahead to a new era of light commercial vehicles
  • Crafter HyMotion with hydrogen fuel cell can achieve driving ranges of up to 500 km
  • ABT e-Caddy to arrive on market in mid-2019 with a range of around 220 kilometres
  • Battery system of the ABT e-Transporter has scalable design: customers can choose between 208 and 400 km range
  • Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles presents the world's most advanced electric commercial bike for the city with the Cargo e-Bike
  • Transporter concept van with 48-volt mild hybrid drive system combines a turbodiesel engine (TDI) with an electric drive
Hannover, 19 September 2018 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is electrifying the industry with an electric mobility campaign. At the 69th IAA Commercial Vehicles show (20 to 27 September), the specialist in innovative transport solutions is presenting no less than five new zero-emission vehicles – creating a new matrix of electric mobility for commercial use. Making their world debuts are the I.D. BUZZ CARGO, ABT e-Transporter, ABT e-Caddy, the Cargo e-Bike and the Crafter HyMotion which is equipped with a hydrogen fuel cell drive system. The concept of a transporter panel van with a 48-volt mild hybrid drive system is also celebrating its premiere.






WORLD PREMIERE I: I.D. BUZZ CARGO

First commercial vehicle to be based on the I.D. Family: electrically powered I.D. BUZZ CARGO provides look ahead to a new era of transporters

• I.D. BUZZ CARGO has the potential to write history as one of the most advanced transporters
• New, digital cargo system in transporter's cargo compartment brings the "Internet of Things" on board

Hannover, 19 September 2018 – It is the most familiar of all transporters: the Bulli. Now, with the world premiere of the new I.D. BUZZ CARGO, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is showing how an electrically powered and completely redeveloped Bulli might enrich the range of transporters. And as a supplementary model to the best-selling "T6". Meanwhile, the concept vehicle offers a glimpse into the middle of the next decade with its alternative, fully-automated "I.D. Pilot" driving mode.

The transporter concept being presented at the IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hannover (20 to 27 September) is a progressive sibling of the I.D. BUZZ. That concept, which was presented in 2017 in Detroit, enthused people around the globe and will go into production starting in 2022. Designed to be just as progressive is the new I.D. BUZZ CARGO. It is the first transporter to be based on the I.D. Family – a new generation of electric vehicles that impresses with long ranges, a progressive design-DNA and remarkably good space. The new modular electric drive matrix (MEB) represents the common technical matrix for the I.D. models. A new feature in the cargo compartment of the I.D. BUZZ CARGO is a fully digitalised cargo system with which Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is bringing the fastest "Internet of Things" on board.

Another unique selling point of the I.D. BUZZ CARGO is the scalability of its batteries. The models can be delivered with different battery sizes according to the vehicle's purpose and budget. The MEB enables ranges from approximately 330 to more than 550 km (per WLTP) – depending on the battery size and the specific model.

For more information on the I.D. BUZZ CARGO, see the separate press kit at www.vwn-presse.de 






WORLD PREMIERE II: CRAFTER HYMOTION

Crafter HyMotion is a large, long-range transporter with a hydrogen fuel cell

• The Crafter concept, powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, achieves ranges of up to 500 km
• The near-production Crafter HyMotion could be available for sale as soon as the filling station infrastructure is in place

Hannover, 19 September 2018 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has just recently presented the first large electric van with the world premiere of the e-Crafter. Now, just one month later, the next zero-emission version of the highly contemporary panel van is celebrating its world premiere at IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hannover: the Crafter HyMotion – a van with a fuel cell drive. Unlike the e-Crafter, which can be ordered now, the Crafter HyMotion is still a concept vehicle. Nonetheless, its technical concept is near-production.

HyMotion stands for the terms "hydrogen" and "motion" – i.e. driving with hydrogen. The Crafter HyMotion was designed to cover longer distances with zero emissions. The e-Crafter, on the other hand, was developed for delivery services, service businesses and tradesmen who mainly travel short distances in the city with its lithium-ion battery and ranges of up to 173 kilometres (WLTP) . The longer the daily distances to be covered, the more appealing the fuel cell drive becomes in the field of large commercial vehicles, because its ranges are long and its fuel stops are very short – both of which are especially important criteria in the delivery of just-in-time goods. The vehicle's maximum payload is the same as that of today's diesel vehicles.

The tanks integrated in the Crafter HyMotion have a capacity of 7.5 kg hydrogen. This enables the 4.2-tonne van to cover driving ranges of more than 500 km. Instead of the large traction battery of the e-Crafter, a smaller lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of 13.1 kWh is at work in the Crafter HyMotion. The fuel cell system that delivers 30 kW of power serves as a range extender. Meanwhile, the Crafter HyMotion utilises the same 100 kW electric motor and gearbox as in the e-Crafter. The van's fuel consumption is 1.4 kg hydrogen per 100 km. A driving range example: the Crafter HyMotion would only need to refill with fuel once on the 623 km route from Hannover, the capital of Lower Saxony, to the Bavarian metropolis of Munich. Duration of the filling stop: four minutes.

Fuel cell drives like the one in the Crafter HyMotion are still significantly more expensive than all-electric drives. However, forecasts based on analyses by the Volkswagen Group indicate that manufacturing costs for these two zero-emission drive systems are likely to equalise by 2025. By then, the infrastructure of hydrogen filling stations will also have improved substantially. Take the example of Germany: today there are 50 filling stations across Germany. By the end of this year there will already be around 100. The network is expected to grow to 400 filling stations by 2023. This means that the infrastructure will be good enough within the next five years to make commercial vehicles with hydrogen fuel cells relevant in business practice. Between 2025 and 2030, the number of hydrogen filling stations could rise to as many as 1,000 across Germany. If, at the same time, prices for components of this pioneering drive system drop, this could enable a market breakthrough by hydrogen fuel cells from 2025. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is prepared for this eventuality with innovative vehicle concepts like the Crafter HyMotion.

Mode of operation of the fuel cell

This can be explained in two sentences: a hydrogen fuel cell utilises energy from the chemical reaction between hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (O) to generate electrical energy. The "exhaust gas" is nothing more than clean water vapour.

Explained in detail: the central element of each individual fuel cell is a proton-conducting membrane – several of which are combined to form a stack. Each membrane is positioned between the anode and the cathode. Hydrogen flows on the anode side, and air flows into the cell on the cathode side. In this process, hydrogen reacts with oxygen and combines to form water at the cathode. Here, the fuel cell converts the chemical energy of an oxidation process – also known as "cold combustion" – directly into electrical energy.

Overview of the Crafter model series

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has one of the most innovative and efficient large vans in the form of the current Crafter. There is hardly another commercial vehicle in this class that offers better space, economy, more optimal payloads, a similarly innovative range of assistance and infotainment systems, more connected online fleet management systems or a comparably large range of drive systems and body variants.

When it made its debut in autumn 2016, the Crafter was offered with front-wheel drive and a maximum gross weight of 3,500 kg. Since then, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been systematically extending the number of drive and body combinations so that it can offer tailor-made solutions for all conceivable transport tasks. For example, both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (4MOTION) have been available in the Crafter since mid-2017. The youngest offspring of the model series is the new e Crafter. As a panel van it is ideally suited for urban delivery transport. The launch of this innovative zero-emission van in the market coincides with the IAA on 20 September 2018. Just as for the e-Crafter, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is also offering the Crafter as a panel van, a kombi, single and double cab (pickup, tipper and chassis) as well as a box body. In addition, two wheelbases (3.64 and 4.49 metres) and various overall lengths are available. The Crafter is designed for a gross weight of 3,000 to 5,500 kg, depending on the drive, engine and gearbox combination.

The Crafter TDI vehicles are powered by four-cylinder turbodiesel engines, and the e-Crafter, as mentioned, by an electric motor. A particulate filter and SCR catalytic converter reduce emissions of the efficient TDI engines. These engines are available at the output levels of 75 kW / 102 PS, 90 kW / 122 PS, 103 kW / 140 PS and 130 kW / 177 PS.




 

WORLD PREMIERE III: – ABT E-TRANSPORTER

Electric ABT e-Transporter offers a first glimpse of the future of the best-selling "T6"

• All-electric ABT e-Transporter makes its debut as a taxi concept at the IAA Commercial Vehicles
• Two different battery sizes enable ranges from 208 to 400 kilometres (NEDC)

Hannover, 19 September 2018 – At the IAA 2018, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is taking the successful "T6" generation of Transporters into the electric era with the world premiere of the ABT e-Transporter. The zero-emission all-round vehicle is still a concept vehicle – both technically and visually. But within a year, the concept car could become a production model. At the IAA, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is presenting the ABT e Transporter concept as a silent-running large taxi with up to nine seats.

This concept car is a technological forerunner – it is the first version of the best-selling van to be powered entirely by electricity. The battery system of the ABT e-Transporter is built to be scalable so that it can satisfy the needs of a wide variety of potential applications and budgets in a possible production model. In its base configuration, the Transporter has a lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of 37.3 kWh; the second battery version offers an energy capacity of 74.6 kWh. Driving ranges with these two batteries are between 208 and 400 km (predicted NEDC figures).

A fully discharged 37.3-kW battery can be charged to 100% within five hours and ten minutes at a charging power of up to 7.2 kW, and using the quick charge method at 40 kW of power it can even charge it to 80% in 49 minutes. Charging times are twice as long for the large battery version (74.6 kW instead of 37.3 kW).

ABT e-Line GmbH has developed the zero-emission transporter in cooperation with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Abt e-Line GmbH is a company of the ABT Group to which the well-known company ABT Sportsline GmbH also belongs – a company that is extremely successful in the fields of vehicle upgrades and motorsports and is considered a pacesetter in electric mobility for both motorsport and road vehicles. Team ABT has competed successfully in the FIA Formula E racing series, for example, in which it has already won in the driver classification with Lucas Di Grassi and in the team classification as well.

This has led to the creation of the ABT e-Transporter – a zero-emission vehicle with tremendous practical utility. The 120-km/h transporter with its two battery variants offers a storage volume of 6.7 m3. Maximum payload is 1,050 kg with the smaller battery or 750 kg with the larger battery. Its gross vehicle weight rating is 3,200 kg in both variants.

The ABT e-Transporter is based on the larger wheelbase version (3,400 mm) of the "T6". The overall length of the concept vehicle is 5,406 mm. In addition to the taxi being shown in Hannover (Caravelle for passenger transport), other conceivable derivatives include a closed panel van (flexible use of cargo compartment) and a kombi (different seat and cargo compartment variants).



WORLD PREMIERE IV: – ABT E-CADDY

The electrically powered ABT e-Caddy will launch with zero emissions in 2019

• New ABT e-Caddy will cover distances of up to 220 kilometres on a single battery charge
• 120 km/h ABT e-Caddy is based on large Caddy Maxi and offers 4.2 m3 of cargo space

Hannover, 19 September 2018 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will launch the all-electric ABT e-Caddy into the market in mid-2019. The new zero-emission model is celebrating its world premiere at the IAA Commercial Vehicles in Hannover. With a range of up to 220 km (forecast NEDC figure), the ABT e-Caddy has been ideally tailored for urban use in European cities – for commercial uses of all kinds as well as personal use.

In Hannover, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is presenting the ABT e-Caddy in the form of an extremely spacious taxi for five people plus luggage. The drive system for the ABT e-Caddy was developed by ABT e-Line GmbH. The ABT e-Transporter concept vehicle, which is also being introduced in a world premiere at the IAA Commercial Vehicles, was also created in the framework of this strategic partnership with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

An 82-kW electric motor powers the front wheels of the ABT e Caddy, supplied with electricity via a lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of 37.3 kWh. In this system, the flow of energy between the motor and battery is managed by power electronics. In the ABT e-Caddy, power is transmitted via an automatic single-speed gearbox. A fully discharged battery can be charged to 100 per cent in less than six hours at a charging power of up to 7.2 kW (e.g. at wallboxes). Using the quick charge method at 40 kW, the battery can be charged to 80 per cent capacity in just 49 minutes.

The 120-km/h ABT e-Caddy will launch as a Maxi with the long wheelbase (320 mm longer) and will be one of the most spacious electric vehicles in its class with a cargo volume of 4.2 m3. Its maximum payload is 635 kg. The ABT e-Caddy can be configured as a commercial vehicle in the form of the panel van (no windows at rear) and kombi (with rear windows) – or as a passenger carrying vehicle. 



 
WORLD PREMIERE V: CARGO E-BIKE

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is presenting the world's most advanced electric cargo bike

• The Cargo e-Bike is equipped with innovative axle kinematics which keep the goods being transported level
• The three-wheel pedelec can be ridden without a driver's licence and will launch in 2019

Hannover, 19 September 2018 – Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will be offering innovative zero-emission vehicles in nearly all market segments. With this goal in mind, the brand has developed its first electric cargo bike: the Cargo e-Bike. It was designed for use in downtown areas, production plants, businesses of all types and hotels – the list of potential applications is limitless. A progressive last-mile deliverer with a market launch date as soon as next year.

The Cargo e-Bike from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is a pedelec that adds power assistance to the rider's pedalling with its 250 watt (48V) mid-mounted motor at speeds up to 25 km/h. The advantages: the cargo bike can be used without a driver's licence or insurance and can be used practically anywhere. The energy for the electric motor is supplied by a lithium-ion battery (energy capacity: 500 Wh). The bike's range is up to 100 kilometres.

The three-wheel Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle has an axle with two wheels at the front and the cargo platform positioned low between them. The rear of the pedelec is designed like a normal bicycle. A cargo box with a storage volume of 0.5 m3 can be mounted to the load platform. The cargo bike is 2,060 mm long, 890 mm wide and 1,100 mm tall (height of handlebars). The drive and the rugged architecture of the lightweight 40-kg cargo bike have been designed for a payload of up to 210 kg (including rider).

The innovative kinematics of the front axle ensure that the goods being transported on the load platform do not tilt with the cargo bike when cornering, rather they remain horizontal and thereby stable. This tilt-levelling technology is an innovation in the segment of cargo bikes.

Ingenious detailed solutions like the new kinematics are a common thread that runs through the entire design concept of the Cargo e Bike. The bike's track width was intentionally limited to less than 900 mm so that it is even possible to ride through door frames. The combination of its track width, a relatively long wheelbase of 1,350 mm and the low centre of gravity of its load platform result in a high degree of safety against overturning. Ride comfort is optimised by wide balloon tyres (20-inch at front, 24-inch at rear) from Continental ("Revolution" type). The solutions implemented by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles combine to create a new generation of electric cargo bikes whose utility and ride properties will set the benchmark in this field.

The innovative Cargo e-Bike will be produced at the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles plant in Hannover. A new production area with a floor area of 240 m2 was set up for this purpose. SOP – Start of Production – is scheduled for the very near future.
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Friday, July 21, 2017

Volkswagen Group Research - Future Mobility Day 2017

July 21, 2017 0

The Volkswagen Group is taking a proactive approach to designing the mobile world of tomorrow through Group Research. Volkswagen Research is a visionary, innovation scout and strategic partner for all the brands in the Group – with an enormous bandwidth of topics and projects about potential mobility scenarios for the megacities of the world, autonomous driving concepts like Sedric, new drive technologies, and new materials and product technologies. The engineers and scientists in Wolfsburg give a small snapshot of their otherwise strictly confidential topics at the Media Day for the Future Mobility Days 2017.

Research has never been as important before as it is today. In a world where change is taking place with increasing rapidity, new technologies are impacting on lifestyles at breakneck speed and customer aspirations are being modified, any company needs to identify these trends at an early stage and adopt a proactive approach to structuring its own developments and offerings. Particularly when a manufacturer is operating with benchmarks on the global stage, a distinction needs to be drawn between trends and fashions. A company also needs to be in a position to assess the importance and significance of topics in different countries. Only then can it take the right decisions – and they also need to be implemented within the framework of the appropriate timing. Being first mover is not always the key factor. But being prepared for every situation is important. “Research is a core function for success and for the long-term existence of a technology company. The Volkswagen Group takes this function very seriously,” said Axel Heinrich, Head of Volkswagen Group Research. “Volkswagen is a highly innovative company and this will continue to remain the case in the future – particularly in times when change is rapidly gathering pace.”

International Ideas Network
The centre of Group Research is located in Wolfsburg. However, research is also established on a global scale in the same way as the entire Group – with locations, research laboratories and subsidiaries in Germany and Europe, as well as the USA, in China, in Spain and in Japan. International trend and technology scouting is also part of the mission, along with addressing topics related to specific regions. The second level in the network of Volkswagen Group Research is formed by numerous cooperative ventures with teaching and research institutions all around the world. Prestigious universities in the USA and China, including Stanford and Tongji, are also integrated in projects, as are the Fraunhofer Society, the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and the Max-Planck Institutes.

Consistent Cooperation with the Brands
“Cooperation and collaboration are core concepts for Volkswagen Research. This is not simply the case with external partners, but most importantly also with the 14 brands of the Group,” according to Head of Research Heinrich. Group Research is undoubtedly a visionary, trend scout, ideas generator and incubator, but most importantly it is a driver for innovations. This role is always carried out in cooperation with other technical development areas – whether it is manifested as a cooperative project or as a mission for one or several brands of the Group. This applies to commercial vehicles like MAN or Scania and for automobile brands like Audi or Volkswagen.
 
Future is generated by Knowledge
The breadth of the projects being carried out by Volkswagen Group Research can easily be identified on the basis of its structure. Future Research forms its own division. Technology Intelligence is assisted here by digital support in carrying out investigations into systematic patterns in technology landscapes and areas of competence. Corporate Foresight strengthens the future capability of the Group through the transfer of future knowledge into strategic areas and processes. Future Communications is responsible for the presentation and communication of future themes within research and the Group.
Core functions of mobility research relate to analysis, documentation and transfer of comprehensive knowledge about developments in the mobility and transport system for future structuring of mobility.


Module 1: Smart Performance – The integrated drive strategy of the Volkswagen Group



GasOn – Lean CNG CombustionCompressed Natural Gas (CNG) offers substantial advantages as a fuel in relation to CO2 and emissions of harmful pollutants. This is associated with the chemical composition of methane and the efficient combustion process. The optimum situation is if the engine has been designed for monovalent operation with CNG alone. However, to date no monovalent gas-powered vehicles have been offered in the automobile market. Volkswagen Group Research has now joined forces with partners to develop a highly innovative engine powered by natural gas in the GasOn EU Research Project. The power unit is based on a two-litre diesel engine and permits very high compression. Extremely lean combustion (λ~2) leads to low consumption and initially to very low NOx engine-out emissions. Nevertheless, exhaust gas treatment continues to be a technological challenge with lean combustion processes (λ>1) by comparison with the homogeneous concepts (λ=1) found in the marketplace. The cold-start procedure with all-gas operation is another focus of research related to monovalent CNG power units.


                         
Vario.DriveAlongside an all-electric drive, the plug-in hybrid drive with the option of charging the vehicle from an electric socket will continue to retain an important place in the drive strategy of the Volkswagen Group in the future. Ultimately, it links up local zero-emission driving – for example in city settings – with the high overland range of an efficient SI engine. This is particularly the case if the power values become enhanced even further by comparison with the status quo. Volkswagen Research is adopting new approaches with the Vario.Drive and integration of the e-motor, the transmission setup with planetary gear set and claw clutches, but without hydraulics. The reward is significantly higher power yet with a more compact design and improved efficiency. Electric all-wheel drive is also possible with an additional e-motor on the rear axle.
      
Fuel Cells – Business Environment and Market IntroductionWhile technical development of the fuel cell has made significant progress towards series application, the scenarios of a successful market launch have not yet been clarified. Public perception is currently focused on battery-powered electric cars. Furthermore, hydrogen infrastructure is currently in an initial phase and it has posed a variety of issues. Group Research has highlighted the potential scenarios for market development in a comprehensive study and the subsequent simulation.

Fuel Cell ActivitiesThe hydrogen engine is the supplement to the all-electric battery-powered drive and is a fixed element of the drive strategy on the route to zero emissions. A fuel cell is an energy converter like an SI engine and not a storage device like a battery. This results in comparatively short fuelling stops like those familiar from conventional vehicles. It also offers particularly significant potential if a lot of energy has to be accommodated in the vehicle. The application of fuel-cell technology is therefore advisable especially in large vehicles, utility vehicles and vehicles that have to travel long distances.
Group Research Fuel Cell carries out fundamental research into fuel-cell technology, and the development and testing of fuel-cell systems as a platform for series development in the Group.
The focus is on reduction of the overall system costs and increase in efficiency and service life. Consequently, the expansion of simulation operations has considerably enhanced development speed and concepts have been developed for reducing costs, e.g. through reduction of the platinum content.

Module 2: Smart Performance – The integrated drive strategy of the Volkswagen Group

HyMotion Driving ExperienceThe fuel cell is a fixed element in the future strategy at Volkswagen as a supplier of electrical energy designed to power automobiles. The Group is carrying out intensive research and developing this technology with the HyMotion Project. Two concept vehicles provide evidence of the high standard already achieved:

The Audi A7 Sportback h-tron quattro is a test platform powered by the first fuel-cell system developed in entirety by the Group. This Audi A7 is also the first electric all-wheel vehicle and the first plug-in hybrid based on a fuel cell in the Group. And the driving style is extremely dynamic. The maximum output of the two e-machines on the front and rear axles is an impressive 170 kilowatts. And the continuous output of the fuel cell permits a top speed of 180 km/h.


       
The Passat HyMotion Fuel Cells based on the US version of the Passat is a comfortable touring saloon designed as a hybrid based on fuel cells. The fuel-cell system and the hybrid battery together supply the innovative drive system with energy through the most efficient direct-current converter in this power class. The e-machine can therefore generate a maximum output of 100 kilowatts. The continuous output of the fuel cell allows a top speed of 160 km/h here. The fuel cell is supplied from a total of four H2 pressurised storage cylinders with a maximum pressure of 700 bar.



 
      
CO2 Lighthouse Diesel EngineOver the past four years, engine researchers looking at diesel engines have also been working out the potential for further reducing consumption in a “Lighthouse Project”. At the same time, it was also important to sustainably reduce NOx emissions in operation relevant to customers. The platform for this is the three-cylinder engine with a capacity of 1.5 litres. It has been engineered with an advanced combustion chamber, new pistons and fully variable valve train on the inlet and outlet side, comprehensive packages for friction reduction, heat storage and variable cooling circuit. The injection pressure here is at a scarcely conceivable 3,000 bar. An electric booster powered by 48 volts and a 48V hybrid system provide additional advantages. There is also impressive potential here as well. A modern Golf fitted with this engine would generate 25-30 percent less CO2 emissions on the standard test route.
The demonstrated technologies can be easily transferred to other diesel passenger cars without any restrictions. This clearly demonstrates that the diesel engine remains an important player in the competition to achieve CO2 targets.




 
      
CO2 Lighthouse SI EnginIn future, the SI engine will continue to be an important constituent element of mobility throughout the world. It therefore needs to be developed further and optimised. Over the past four years, Volkswagen Group Research has used its “CO2 Lighthouse SI Engine” to assess the potential still available in the engine if all currently conceivable efficiency technologies are integrated – initially without taking costs into account. Engineering freaks are likely to be getting very excited. The research engine developed here was a highly compressed SI engine with a variable compression ratio, centrally positioned injection valves, fully variable valve timing on the inlet and outlet side, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a petrol particulate filter. The associated 48 volt hybrid system operates with a 10 kilowatt electric motor. There is impressive potential. This drivetrain can reduce CO2 emissions by more than 20 percent compared with a comparably powered vehicle. This demonstrates that it is worth pursuing further development of the technology packages presented.

Module 3: Automated Driving – The safe route to autonomous driving      



Level 5 Urban CoCar Mobility SystemIn future, the world of the autonomous automobile will be as varied and diverse as the range of conventional cars. Right from the start, autonomous minibuses will play an important role – as an integral element of mobility systems and as a complement to public transport. These minibuses are initially likely to drive in a large number of small towns in specially allocated lanes and routes. They will be quiet, zero emission and safe. Autonomous driving will start here and this will be in just a few years’ time. Group Research has developed the technical concept for this kind of vehicle within the project. Several versions have been designed for the interior and scenarios have been simulated for optimum deployment of an autonomous fleet of minibuses.



 
      
Self-Learning Chassis – AI-in Vehicle DynamicsVehicle dynamics are a key module for automated driving so as to take our customers to their destination as efficiently, safely and comfortably as possible. The vision of Group Research is a self-learning chassis which adapts dynamically to the vehicle and the circumstances at any point in time. Ultimately, these dynamic driving systems achieve the best vehicle control in all situations. The latest approaches to machine learning and artificial intelligence build on components for planning the route trajectory and for controlling and regulating the vehicle. The journey is continuously analysed, the driving behaviour is learnt and adjusted in order to ensure that the next journey runs more smoothly.
      
Fellow Trucks – Automated Driving of Heavy Duty VehiclesTrucks driving autonomously are intended to create greater safety on the roads and contribute to more efficient driving. This is true for motorway traffic and for truck transport in mines. However, the mission for development engineers designing self-driving systems in the latter context is significantly more difficult. If there are no roads and no road markings, but at best dirt tracks where potholes or deep excavations impose limits on the route, sensor systems have to be able to selectively identify these elements in the surrounding environment. Group Research has been working on these systems together with MAN
and Scania.

 
      
Simulation of Chinese Traffic for Developing Piloted DrivingThe behaviour of people in traffic differs from country to country. In China, for example, completely different situations are experienced on the roads as compared with German roads. However, the systems of a mobility system operating on the global stage need to operate everywhere. This requires a huge amount of test and harmonisation work, particularly for the development of self-drive automobiles. In future, a growing proportion of this work is likely to take place in virtual reality – with simulation of the particularly complex traffic situations in Chinese megacities.


 
      
Mobile Charging RobotsIn future, rapid charging of the electric vehicle will be extremely convenient. Mobile robots will connect up the automobile for recharging. Group Research is therefore working on charging robot concepts for underground garages and multi-story car parks. The Gen.E research vehicle is charged by the robot. This provides an insight into the next generation of automobiles for efficient long-distance mobility with a range of more than 400 kilometres. The lightweight architecture has been designed for maximum crash safety including the battery. The battery is based on advanced lithium-ion cells and the efficiency of the electric motor has been optimised.



 
      
Robust Lane Fusion Using Camera and RadarAn automobile driving autonomously always has to know precisely where it is located, how other road users are responding in the surrounding area and which route it can use. And this precision has to be measured to within just a few centimetres. A sensor system on its own is not adequate for this degree of accuracy. The camera can only measure the depth and distance of objects to a certain extent, while radar systems can perceive contours only to a limited degree. However, if these two systems are combined, they eliminate the individual disadvantages to create a comprehensive and precise picture of the environment. In the course of this complex project, Group Research is developing a system which reliably fuses and evaluates the data from the sensors.

Module 4: Virtual Technologies – The digital route to new mobile worlds



Air HumidificationThe quality of the ambient air is extremely important for the well-being of the people on board an automobile. Ideally, the relative humidity should be between 40 and 60 percent. When conditions in the summer are exceptionally dry or in countries with a very dry climate, the air in the vehicle needs to be adjusted to these values by humidification. Volkswagen Research is working on providing the customer with a tangible function for improved air humidity.
                  
Digitalisation PowertrainBig data, artificial intelligence and connectivity will also play a major role in the conceptual design and development of future drive systems. Where conventional calculation systems encounter boundaries, self-learning algorithms and high-performance analytical methods identify completely new solutions. A typical area of application is the development of individual customer drive functions which adapt to current driving behaviour. Group Research demonstrates these options in a project using the example of adaptive start-stop systems.

Vehicle Data Driven BusinessEven the automobile of today – to say nothing of future cars – generates an enormous amount of data about its behaviour and its environment with every kilometre travelled. At the moment, vehicle data are mainly used to improve vehicle services. In future, the focus is likely to shift more emphatically to the use of vehicle data for other industrial sectors. For example, data on sun intensity from the series sensor systems of vehicles can be used by transmission grid operators in order to improve forecasts of regenerative energy sources such as solar energy. This will significantly reduce their costs for consumers. Vehicle data will be able to make an important contribution to the electricity grid of the future.

High Resolution LCoS HeadlightLED headlights are by no means fitted as standard everywhere, laser light is only in the initial stages. But researchers in Wolfsburg have been working on the next generation of light technology for a long time: Liquid Crystal on Silicone (LCoS). This lighting system facilitates an innovative, high resolution light distribution and replaces the conventional functions of dipped and main beam. There is even more to it than that. As well as enabling sensor-controlled, completely free light distribution, LCoS can also project symbols on the road in order to assist in enhancing safety in road traffic.
      
HMI for External CommunicationToday, communication between vehicles emulates communication between people. Two drivers use eye contact or gestures to regulate the sequence when turning corners or they allow pedestrians to cross the road. In future, this will no longer be possible with autonomous self-drive automobiles. They need a new level of communication. Group Research has developed new pathways enabling the vehicle to communicate with the surrounding environment in order to take account of this key safety aspect in the context of autonomous driving. The research is testing different visual and acoustic transmission channels for conveying the necessary signals.
      
Barcelona Smart ShuttleHow can shared mobility operate optimally, how can an innovative shuttle system function in a major European city? Barcelona provides the concrete example in this project. The investigation focuses on the parameters for an optimum new mobility service as a supplement to existing public transport options. How many vehicles are necessary to fulfil which mobility needs? But another factor relates to the issue of what are the necessary cost structures? After the virtual analysis has been carried out, a pilot fleet comprised of twelve vehicles is to be used in the real world of the Spanish metropolis.

Module 5: Sustainable Mobility – Sustainability and Environment

Mobility and Energy System: Interactions in a Decarbonised WorldWide-ranging measures are needed throughout the energy sector in order to achieve common climate-protection targets. However, how will costs develop in the energy sector if greenhouse gases are reduced by 80 or even 95 percent by the year 2050? And what effects will that have on the transport sector? A comprehensive study carried out by Volkswagen Group Research is examining different scenarios which can develop on this roadmap. The initial results demonstrate that the climate targets can be achieved in technical terms and that they even make economic sense. At any rate, the transport sector needs to electrify significant proportions of the vehicles used. Fuels generated from renewable energies such as green gas will gain importance in future and will play an important role in a networked energy system.

Eco-Factors World – Evaluation of a Resource Efficient FactoryThe Volkswagen Group is using environmental factors to review its production factories and it is working consistently towards the goal of production without negative impacts on the environment. To date, environmental factors have been defined for production sites in Germany and Europe, and in application. The project is now being extended to the USA, Russia, India, South Africa, Mexico, China, Brazil and Argentina. This means that evaluation criteria for environmental aspects – such as CO2 or energy and water consumption – will be adjusted to the regional circumstances, as a result of which country-specific measures will reduce environmental impacts more efficiently.

Resource Efficient Vehicle – Ecological Optimisation over LifecycleWhat measures can be used to reduce the CO2 emissions of a vehicle over the entire lifecycle in the most cost-efficient way? How can the use of critical raw materials be reduced? This research project is not about individual technical topics. The entire system around the automobile is being investigated in all phases of its lifecycle – from manufacture, through use, to recycling. Drive systems and renewable energies naturally exert the strongest impact. However, as far as the customer is concerned, the issue of costs cannot be neglected.

Logistic Study of Battery RecyclingThe batteries of current and future electric automobiles have been designed for a very long service life. However, in the medium or longer-term future so many electric vehicles and their batteries will reach the end of their lifecycle that recycling will become a task on an industrial scale. Ultimately, a lithium-ion battery will never be pure waste but the source of valuable raw materials. For example, clear regulations govern this area in China. The vehicle manufacturer is responsible for taking back and reprocessing. A joint project being carried out by Group Research (China), overall vehicle development and the sales department of Volkswagen is developing the first concept of recycling logistics for batteries in China. Tsinghua University is the external project partner.

Mobility Services – Traffic Modelling and Environmental ImpactsAutonomous mobility systems planned in the future are often regarded almost as saviours for the traffic situation in the world’s overloaded metropolises. However, is it possible for mobility-on-demand packages, such as self-driving taxis or autonomous minibuses to deliver this outcome? What impacts do these transport solutions have on our roads and for the environment? A project being run by Group Research is looking for the answer based on comprehensive analyses and simulations.

Module 6: Innovation Starts from the Beginning – New Materials and Processes of the Future

High Energy Battery CellsIn future, the battery will be a key component in the vehicle. And this is not simply the case in purely battery-powered vehicles but also in fuel-cell drives and in PHEV or hybrids with SI engines. For many years, Volkswagen Research has therefore been working intensively with different battery technologies. The main focus has been on increasing the energy density in lithium-ion battery cells but also on building up know-how on cell production. Work is being carried out over the entire breadth of cell development, from basic electrode composition with innovative material approaches to fine-tuning of numerous production parameters. The acquired in-depth knowledge of battery development and production forms the cornerstone for electromobility and strengthens the Volkswagen Group in global competition.

Silicon Carbide ComponentsSilicon carbide (SiC) is far superior as a material for semi-conductors to conventional silicon in a number of areas. A significantly higher power density, lower losses and higher switching speed make silicon carbide an extremely interesting prospect for power electronics in electric vehicles. Group Research is currently building the first DC/DC converters and inverters as test devices. Simple components (diodes) have already been used in series for a number of years. However, large volumes of the more complex components being investigated here are only expected in some years.

Fatigue of Electrical SheetsElectric vehicles are a completely new topic area for most people. These cars first have to earn the confidence of customers in their robustness and long service life. However, manufacturers are continuously working on new and improved know-how for the durability of components in the e-drive. A project by Volkswagen Group Research is currently working on fatigue of electrical sheets.

Smart Block for Hybrid EnginesEngineers in Group Research working on development of new lightweight materials and production technologies in this project have sought out the most difficult component of all: the engine block. This is subject to extremely high requirements for stiffness and temperature resistance. The selected component should be understood as a technology platform and not necessarily as a target component. A concept has been developed for an engine block made of fibre-reinforced plastic, with liners and a base plate made of aluminium. A reduction of more than 15 percent in weight appears to be possible, although various issues remain to be solved in respect of vibration, fatigue and cooling, manufacturing feasibility and costs.

PP-Rod Reinforcement of Injection Moulding PartsLightweight construction is a continuously recurring challenge for automobile design engineers, as is stability and safety. An innovative production technology from Group Research combines both sides. So-called PP-Rods, cables made of endless glass fibres, are used here in conjunction with a polypropylene matrix to provide local strengthening for injection moulding plastic parts. The solutions are lightweight and stable. Applications have been submitted in respect of patents for this technology.

Hybrid-Glass Polymer Display CarrierThe all-digital cockpits of future automobiles need an innovative design. A pioneering technology developed in a project by Group Research will enable glass surfaces to be combined with plastic so that displays will appear to be an integral part of these surfaces. This will enable an extremely high-quality, clean and modern design of the interior and control elements.

 
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Wednesday, May 24, 2017

30 Minutes With: The 2017 Toyota Mirai

May 24, 2017 0
Front 3/4 view of 2017 Toyota Mirai
The 2017 Toyota Mirai.
Publisher's note:  Normally, the cars you read about here at TireKicker are loaned to us by the press fleets of the various manufacturers for several days.  Seven is typical.  Occasionally, we'll get a longer period of time, and sometimes it'll only be three or four days.  Our "30 Minutes With" series are cars that we spent half an hour behind the wheel of during the just-concluded Western Automotive Journalists Media Days in Monterey, California.

Day one of Media Days is a driving program, with journalists taking cars from the staging area at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca via Laureles Grade.  Once there, you swap cars with another journalist for the drive back, and then swap cars again once back at the Quail. Apart from an hour's lunch, this is your day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Each run is about half an hour, and driving 10 to 12 cars back-to-back-to-back gives you interesting points of reference about the next one.

My eighth car of the day made up for some small amount of the hydrocarbons I'd been spewing in the first seven...the 2017 Toyota Mirai.



Map of route from Quail Lodge to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca via Laureles Grade
Quail Lodge to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca via Laureles Grade (courtesy Google Maps).
Laureles Grade is about five and a half miles of non-stop twists and turns between Carmel Valley Road and CA 68, and thus perfect for a pack of automotive journalists and some high-grade machinery.

Side view of 2017 Toyota Mirai
2017 Toyota Mirai.
The Mirai (Japanese for "future") is a different kind of high-grade machinery from what I'd been driving.  It's a hydrogen fuel cell car.  The idea being to take an element of nature and use it to power a vehicle, with water vapor being the only tailpipe emission.  True green car enthusiasts will tell you that this is what makes the most sense, as hybrids use some fossil fuels, and electric vehicles require a charge that comes from existing power plants, some of which...burn fossil fuels.

The biggest problem is infrastructure.  Even here in California, a gas station with hydrogen pumps is pretty rare.  As a result, Toyota is only selling the Mirai in California...and then only through eight specially authorized dealers in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, the Bay Area and Roseville (suburban Sacramento).

Despite (or maybe because of) the exclusivity, Toyota is being very aggressive about marketing the Mirai to prospective buyers...making a point of letting them know that the fairly stiff $57,500 purchase price gets whittled down by a $5,000 California tax rebate, offering a 36-month lease deal for $2,499 down and $349 a month and throwing in three years' worth of complimentary fuel.  And, if you look at the photo above, that white sticker just aft of the rear wheel...that's like gold here in California...it allows you to use the HOV lane when it's just you in the car.  The Mirai qualifies.  A simple hybrid doesn't.

Interior view of 2017 Toyota Mirai
2017 Toyota Mirai interior.
As for the driving experience, if you've driven a Prius, you know what to expect.  In fact, the interior is instantly familiar, with the exception of a few Mirai-exclusive bits.  Judging the driving experience of the Mirai on Laureles Grade is like reviewing a Bugatti Chiron on its fuel economy.

Bottom line:  If you believe nothing more harmful than water vapor should come out of your tailpipe, live in California, can swing the purchase or lease and are comfortable with the Prius' driving dynamics, the Mirai is your car.
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